Device for healing wounds
Inventors
Carnell, Lisa S. • Siochi, Emilie J. • Leong, Kam W.
Assignees
National Aeronautics and Space Administration NASA
Publication Number
US-11298526-B2
Publication Date
2022-04-12
Expiration Date
2030-02-03
Interested in licensing this patent?
MTEC can help explore whether this patent might be available for licensing for your application.
Abstract
A device for promoting healing of an injury in a living being is provided. Such device is based upon an injury covering portion, which portion comprises an electroactive polymer, such as poled polyvinylidine difluoride (PVDF) or a copolymer of PVDF. The electroactive polymer has either pyroelectric properties, piezoelectric properties, or both.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a device for promoting healing of an injury in a living being by utilizing an injury covering portion comprising an electroactive polymer, such as poled polyvinylidine difluoride (PVDF) or a copolymer of PVDF. The electroactive polymer has pyroelectric properties, piezoelectric properties, or both, which generate an electric field when exposed to body heat and pressure, thus promoting and accelerating wound healing.
The problem being solved is that current devices applying electric fields for wound healing rely on AC or DC power sources, making them cumbersome, complex, and expensive, limiting their general use. The invention offers a simpler, lightweight device that does not require external power to generate electrical stimulation at the wound site, potentially expediting the healing process, reducing scarring and infection.
Embodiments of the invention include the application of the electroactive polymer as a film, fiber mat, bandage adhesive, gauze pad, or suture material. The electroactivity originates intrinsically from the electroactive polymer’s pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties activated by normal human body temperature and mechanical pressure from tissue growth, eliminating the need for external voltage or power. The device may further include coatings to enhance heat retention or microbial resistance and an adhering portion to secure it to the living being.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes one independent claim that defines the main inventive features of the device for wound healing.
Electroactive polymer multilayer fiber mat
The device comprises an injury covering portion made of a porous multilayer fiber mat. Each layer consists of a plurality of non-woven electroactive polymer fibers that are aligned and substantially parallel within the layer. The fibers have both pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties and comprise poled polyvinylidine difluoride or a poled copolymer thereof, produced by electrospinning.
The independent claim focuses on the construction of the injury covering portion using an electrospun, aligned multilayer fiber mat of poled electroactive polymer fibers that possess inherent pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties to promote wound healing without requiring applied voltage during use.
Stated Advantages
Provides a simple, lightweight device suitable for different care settings including hospitals, clinics, home, military, emergency medical services, and space missions.
Intrinsic electrical stimulation at the wound site through body heat and pressure without the need for external voltage or power.
Potentially reduces scarring and infection due to electroactive polymer properties.
Material provides a barrier to most bacteria and viruses, enhancing microbial resistance.
Coatings such as biodegradable polymers or precious metals can increase heat retention and microbial resistance.
Possibility for recyclability and reuse if properly disinfected.
Documented Applications
Use as an adhesive bandage applied directly to wounds to promote healing through electroactive polymer properties.
Alternative use as a gauze-like pad that covers wounds, secured by separate adhesive means.
Use as suture material to both mechanically close wounds and electrically promote healing.
Suitability for use in diverse settings including hospital, clinic, home, military, emergency medical services, and space missions.
Interested in licensing this patent?